Klay Thompson suffers heartbreaking tragedy as first Mavericks offseason begins

Dallas Mavericks' newcomer Klay Thompson has enjoyed a long NBA career as one of the league's most beloved stars. As a quiet member of Golden State's 2010s dynasty, fans were drawn to Thompson's personable attitude and electric playstyle. Thompson often shied away from the spotlight, instead earning the respect of fans with his laid-back attitude and hobbies of boating and spending time with his dog, Rocco.

Thompson's heart is heavy this week, as Rocco passed away last week at the age of 13. Rocco, an English Bulldog, was adopted by Thompson during his rookie season. Rocco, who has over 60k Instagram followers, became an NBA sensation alongside Thompson, as the Warriors legend often included Rocco in press conferences, promotional content, and social media posts.

The duo was inseparable, and Mavericks fans and NBA fans alike have heavy hearts as Thompson goes through this hard time. Mavericks fans fell in love with Thompson's game last season due to his electric 3-point shooting and ability to get hot within minutes, and his first full offseason as a Maverick is beginning with a challenge he must overcome.

Klay Thompson faces pivotal offseason without Rocco by his side

To many, Rocco wasn't just a pet but a reflection of Thompson himself.

In a heartwarming moment, Thompson told GQ that Rocco, whose full name is Sir Rocco Von Thompson, was his "number one essential." Thompson explains further that Rocco was his first pet and accompanied Thompson on his frequent outdoor activities. Thompson even carved out time in his pregame routine to play with Rocco.

On ESPN's "Mason and Ireland" show, Klay's father Mychal Thompson revealed that the younger Thompson put Rocco down. Mychal said that Rocco led a "great, long life," but added that, while they are devastated, "it was time."

In many ways, Rocco embodied what NBA fans loved about Thompson.

Rocco and Klay are both often described as chill, loyal, and most frequently found hanging out on a boat. Rocco adopted Klay's effortlessly cool vibe in a modern NBA and dog owner culture where everyone appears to be obsessed with "aura" and perfectly choreographed social media feeds. There were no publicity stunts from either Thompson; they both won over the NBA community's hearts with their authenticity.

There are few things as heart-wrenching as making the decision to put down a dog, particularly for Thompson, who had such a special relationship with his dog. Rocco was Thompson's "loyal steed" for his entire NBA career and was Thompson's rock when he missed two seasons with back-to-back season-ending injuries. Rocco was Klay's best friend, and he sadly won't have him by his side anymore.

Thompson will have to grapple with his recent loss this offseason. The five-time All-Star has faced many challenges in his career, but perhaps none as difficult to manage as losing Rocco. In the aforementioned GQ interview, Thompson said to Rocco, "You'll always hold a special place in my heart, buddy."